The Children's Rights Alliance is calling for an increase in the Child Support Payment to break the cycle of poverty for children.

Data suggests more children are enduring poverty; with 8.5% of kids in poverty last year, up from 4.8% in 2023.

Spokesperson Julie Ahern said the Government must prioritise them. 

“We need to see them focusing on income, making sure the families who are living on low income or who are reliant on social welfare have enough money in their pocket to be able to afford the basics like food, heating, rent,” she said. 

“We also need investment in services; one of the things Government can do that will have the biggest impact in terms of reducing poverty in Ireland is to invest in early years wrap-around services.” 

A child in her home. Picture by: PA Media.

The number of children at risk of poverty also rose by 1%.

“What we’re seeing really is that children are really shouldering the burden of poverty in Ireland,” she said. 

“What’s really worrying about all of this is when you look at those at risk of poverty; by age group, children have the highest rate. 

“It’s gone up to 15.3% in 2024.” 

In the Programme for Government, Fianna Fáil and Fine described child poverty as “not inevitable” and promised “determined focus we can lift more children out of poverty, giving them the futures they deserve.”

Main image: Old broken shoes on a little boy. Picture by: Alamy.com